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A MyOsteoTeam Member asked a question 💭
Boston, MA

When I have my bone scan, I notice they only scan my L1 in my spine and I think they should scan more such as the L3 or L4, they also scan my left arm and hip.
Does anyone else have more than the L1 done on their spine?

June 22, 2021
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Answer Summary

Members shared their experiences with DEXA bone scans after someone asked whether more than just L1 should be scanned in the spine, with most... Read more

Members shared their experiences with DEXA bone scans after someone asked whether more than just L1 should be scanned in the spine, with most confirming that standard practice typically includes scanning L1 through L4 in the lumbar spine along with hip and femoral neck measurements. Several members emphasized the importance of requesting detailed reports, asking doctors to explain what the numbers mean, obtaining copies of scan images, and being proactive about advocating for thorough testing especially if results seem incomplete or confusing. A recurring theme was frustration with healthcare providers who don't offer enough explanation or follow-up, balanced by appreciation for doctors who take time to educate patients and order comprehensive scans that provide a complete picture of bone health.

A MyOsteoTeam Member

Yes, I’ve had the same but more lumbar scanning to report osteoarthritis as well. Be specific to your doctor and make sure they explain what the numbers mean. And, ask for a copy of the pictures they take at time of scanning
Best wishes to you

June 23, 2021
A MyOsteoTeam Member

Wow that sounds awesome, seems you may have found something to help your needs.For help with your epilepsy and your bipolar, disorder, I'd keep doing what you are doing.I'll have to type this on Google and check it out. BLESSING Debbie

June 28, 2021 (edited)
A MyOsteoTeam Member

Good evening BettyA , When I went in the nurse had me late on my back, she scanned only midway up below my chest I believe, . then she twist my left foot and it was kind of lodged during the scan,, kind of felt that. When I went in for result talk Dr. said I have osteopenia in left hip and osteoporosis in my spine. She told me she couldn't tell me where, in the spine 🤔but said it took me two years to get to that, Then wanted me to take a prescription of Fosamax. I refused the drug and she's gave me two years to see where I am at. in numbers. I'm still going to refuse the drug if I feel they way I do now.
I don't know why they just don't give you full scan and completely know where else it may be if you have it..Dont know if this helped or not, but I wish I knew where it was in my spine. I'm going to be a little bit more talkative my next visit next year that will be my two years BettyA:
Recorrected my statement, After receiving a post from Pam on here, I found my Bone Destiny Report , It reads :
AP Spinal L1-L4 osteoporosis. And Femoral Neck osteopenia .
Hip (left) osteopenia. So I did receive a report. 🙂

June 22, 2021 (edited)
A MyOsteoTeam Member

Hi. Seems like you need to call that top doctor. I didn't know osteoporosis went away like that. You should definitely get that checked.
Feel Better and Take Care.
Barb

June 23, 2021
A MyOsteoTeam Member

Good morning Betty, I have been having scans every 2 years over the past decade. My scan results always include bone mineral density L1 thru L4 and bone density of hip. I hope your next scan has good results.

June 23, 2021

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